Suspects Sought in Tourist Robbery

A Wednesday afternoon robbery of a visiting Japanese man in the area of Waikoloa Beach Drive has the Hawai’i Police Department seeking witnesses.

According to HPD, officers responded at around 5:23 p.m. to a report of a robbery that occurred fronting a shopping center near the intersection of Ku’uali’i Place.

A 63-year-old man from Fukuoka reportedly told police that at around 4:15 p.m., he was approached by a man who began to talk to him. While talking with the man, another man approached him from behind and grabbed a bag from his hand. The victim says the suspects ran east on Waikoloa Beach Road.

Police say the victim was not threatened or injured during the incident.

The first suspect was described as 5-foot-7 with short hair. He was reportedly wearing shorts and a shirt that were either green or gray. Police say the second suspect was unable to be identified.

HPD reports that the stolen item were a white and black Hermes brand bag that had the victim’s wallet and other personnel items.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or knows the identity of the suspects should call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311 or contact Detective Sandor Finkey directly by calling 326-4646, extension 281 or e-mailing [email protected].

Those who prefer to maintain anonymity can call the Big Island Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300.